Using the Think Aloud method to assess the feasibility and acceptability of Network Canvas among Black MSM and transgender persons in Atlanta, GA: Qualitative Analysis (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.30237 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Natalie D. Crawford ◽

Dorie Josma ◽

Kristin R.V. Harrington ◽

Joseph Morris ◽

Alvan Quamina ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Social Networks ◽

Social Network ◽

Data Collection ◽

Sexual Behaviors ◽

Black Msm ◽

Network Data ◽

Think Aloud ◽

Self Administration ◽

Social Network Data ◽

Transgender Persons

BACKGROUND Characteristics of one’s social network have been important factors in understanding infectious disease transmission patterns. Social network data collection is generally time and resource intensive, yet is crucial to our understanding of the complex epidemiologic landscape of human behaviors among stigmatized social groups. OBJECTIVE We sought to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a self-administered social network data collection tool, Network Canvas, among Black MSM (BMSM) and transgender persons using the think aloud method, which is a robust and flexible research technique used to perform usability testing. METHODS We piloted a self-administered network interview within the Network Canvas Software Suite. Participants ≥ 18 years were recruited through a community-based organization in Atlanta, GA and were included based upon willingness to share information on sexual behaviors and drug use for themselves and their social networks. A semi-structured interview guide was used to document cognitive decision-making processes while using the tool. Recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analyses were performed. RESULTS Among seven BMSM and transgender participants, three main themes were identified from cognitive processes: Network Canvas’s utility, navigation, and intuitive design. Overall, Network Canvas was described as ‘easy to use,’ with suggestions mainly directed toward improving navigation tools and implementing an initial tutorial on the program prior to use. Participants were willing to use Network Canvas to document their social networks and characteristics. In general, observed verbal responses from participants matched their behavior although there were some discrepancies between verbal affirmations of use and understanding versus external observation. CONCLUSIONS We found Network Canvas to be a useful new tool to capture social network data. Self-administration allowed for more autonomy for participants when providing sensitive information about themselves and their social networks. Further, automated name generation and visualization of one’s social network in the application has the potential to reduce cognitive burden during data collection. More efficient methods of social network data collection have the potential to provide epidemiologic information to guide prevention efforts for populations with stigmatized health conditions or behaviors.

Download Full-text

Processing of grid-based design representations: a qualitative analysis of concurrent think-aloud protocols

AI & Society ◽

10.1007/s00146-021-01281-2 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Gagan Deep Kaur

Keyword(s):

Qualitative Analysis ◽

Think Aloud ◽

Think Aloud Protocols ◽

Design Representations ◽

Grid Based

Download Full-text

A Brief Evaluation of an Interpretive, Self-Guided Mobile Tour

Journal of Interpretation Research ◽

10.1177/109258721702200206 ◽

2017 ◽

Vol 22 (2) ◽

pp. 65-69

Author(s):

Rebecca K. Britt

Keyword(s):

College Student ◽

Qualitative Analysis ◽

Future Research ◽

Think Aloud ◽

Student Sample ◽

College Student Sample ◽

Guided Tours ◽

Research Facilities

In this brief report, an evaluation of a self-guided mobile tour was conducted at a new set of research facilities located at a university designed to attract two audiences: researchers and public visitors. A qualitative analysis using the think-aloud method was completed using the three types of devices through which visitors can complete the tour: a paper booklet, smartphone, or tablet. Findings from a college student sample demonstrated that the paper booklet was easier to use as opposed to the use of a tablet or smartphone. Participants discussed that paper booklets in guided tours offered the ability to take time to explore the landmarks and interpret the underlying meaning behind them. Suggestions are offered for future research on self-guided mobile tours based on research facilities.

Download Full-text